Moving from the hospital to a subacute rehab facility can bring up a lot of emotions. It’s normal to feel uncertain, frustrated, or even anxious as you adjust to a new environment and daily routine. This transition period is important, as your emotional well-being can play a big role in how smoothly your recovery goes. Maintaining a positive mindset during rehabilitation has been linked to improved functional outcomes. A study published in Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences found that positive emotions in subacute stroke patients boosted motivation, engagement, and overall recovery progress.
Most importantly, it helps to understand why you’re at a subacute rehab facility in the first place. Your care team—led by physicians and supported by an interdisciplinary team (IDT) of therapists and nurses—is there to help you recover from a medical or surgical illness, regain as much functional ability as possible, and return to your prior level of independence. They’ll guide your recovery, provide education, and support you every step of the way as you work toward returning home.
Here are 5 ways to stay motivated during your subacute rehab journey:
Making your rehab space feel more like home can provide personal comfort and boost your mood during recovery. Adding personal touches—like family photos, a favorite blanket, or small mementos—can make the environment feel familiar and reassuring. Keeping entertainment options nearby, such as books, puzzles, or a playlist of your favorite music, can help pass the time and provide stress-relief. A cozy, personalized space can make a big difference in helping you stay positive and motivated throughout your rehab stay. Related: What to Bring to Subacute Rehab.
Staying connected with loved ones can provide much-needed encouragement and emotional support during rehab. Regular visits, phone calls, and messages from family and friends can lift your spirits and keep you motivated. If distance is a challenge, technology can help bridge the gap—video calls, social media, and even simple text messages can make you feel more connected. Scheduling regular check-ins or virtual visits can create a sense of routine and remind you that you’re not going through this journey alone.
Setting small, achievable goals can make the rehab process feel more manageable and enhance your mental resilience. Instead of only focusing on the end result, celebrate the small victories—whether it’s increased mobility, completing an exercise, or simply feeling stronger each day. Tracking your progress can be a great way to see how far you’ve come and boost morale. By setting realistic goals and focusing on positive outcomes, you can stay encouraged and build momentum toward recovery.
Keeping a positive mindset can make a big difference in your rehab journey. Practicing gratitude—whether by journaling, reflecting on small wins, or sharing good news with others—can help shift your focus to the positives. Staying mentally engaged is just as important as physical wellness, so consider picking up a hobby, trying a new activity, or exploring creative outlets like drawing or knitting. Keeping your mind active and embracing a grateful outlook can boost personal motivation and make the rehab experience more fulfilling.
Building strong relationships with caregivers and therapists can provide not only professional support but also a sense of social connection during your rehab journey. These relationships foster trust, making it easier to share your challenges and celebrate your progress. Participating in group activities or therapy sessions can also offer valuable social support, allowing you to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Community involvement creates a sense of closeness and encouragement, which can be a powerful motivator throughout your recovery.
Rehabilitation can feel like a long and challenging journey, but by focusing on these strategies, you can stay motivated and engaged throughout the process. Remember that recovery is not just about physical healing but also about nurturing your emotional well-being. Creating a comfortable space, staying connected with loved ones, setting achievable goals, maintaining a positive mindset, and seeking support from those around you all contribute to a more successful and fulfilling rehab experience.
While setbacks are a natural part of the journey, staying focused on the small victories and celebrating progress will help you stay on track. Keep in mind that you’re not alone in this—whether it’s through relationships with your care team or connecting with fellow patients, the support you need is there. With patience, persistence, and the right mindset, you can make the most of your time in subacute rehab and continue moving forward on your path to returning home.
Goyer, Amy. “Managing the Transition from Hospital to Rehab to Home .” AARP, www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2021/transition-from-hospital-rehab-home.html. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.
“How to Stay Motivated during Your Rehabilitation Journey.” TBI Health, 20 June 2023, tbihealth.co.nz/how-to-stay-motivated-during-your-rehabilitation-journey/.
Yoshida, Taiki, et al. “Motivation for Rehabilitation in Patients with Subacute Stroke: A Qualitative Study.” Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 7 June 2021, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9397769/.
The information provided in the article is for general informational purposes only. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, you are encouraged to consult with the appropriate professionals.
